Introduction
Refrigerator shopping can be very intimidating with the numerous options and fancy features of the latest models. However, for the average customer, it boils down to two primary form factors, the bottom freezer, and the top freezer. There’s no denying that you should keep using your old refrigerator as long as possible and fix it from time to time by searching for “refrigerator repair near me” when it’s time for an upgrade, you have to make a decision. Let’s check out whether you should buy a top freezer or bottom freezer refrigerator:
The Discussion
- Top Freezer – When it comes to visual appeal, a top freezer won’t add much. However, the familiar design has been consistent for ages, and modern top-freezer refrigerators may boast a shiny metallic finish and a sleeker design. The best thing about the top freezer is its affordability. Since it’s the most manufactured form factor due to high demand, it’s the most affordable option on the market, and it’s very dependable. If you live alone or have a small family or are looking forward to getting more bang for your buck, then you should go for this model. Moreover, they are more energy-efficient compared to bottom freezers, side-by-side or French door refrigerators and keep your operational cost low. It also makes good use of the available space, and the top rack is at an ergonomic height. So you should be able to store the most frequently used items there. However, it’s not for you if you want some high-end top-of-the-line features and a big freezer compartment.
While you may not get the latest and greatest features, you’ll get all the essential ones. For instance, even modest top freezer models would have crisper drawers and localized climate control to maintain the freshness of veggies and other products as long as possible. You will also get a little bit of modularity for the drink and condiment shelves. You can adjust their height to fit in the largest jugs of milk and bottles of wine. While you may not get smart sensors and dispensers, you also don’t get the maintenance hassles and storage compromise they come with.
Pros:
- The affordable price makes for the lower upfront cost
- High energy efficiency makes it easy to operate and the lack of complex mechanisms also keeps maintenance costs low
- Plenty of room in the refrigerator compartment for all your daily kitchen needs
- The familiar design and form factor easily fits into most kitchens, whether its a suburban home or an apartment
- You get easy access to the freezer compartment
Cons:
- Organization options are very limited
- It may not sit well in terms of aesthetics with the modern industrial kitchen design
- The freezer drawer can’t be pulled out for wider access
- No options of water or ice dispenser
- Bottom-Freezer – Bottom-freezer refrigerators have gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to their practicality and ergonomics. You’ll even find the same bottom freezer design in expensive French door refrigerators with all the bells and whistles. The bottom freezer refrigerator is for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on French door designs and just need a single-door alternative. While the bottom freezer models can be smaller than side-by-side and French doors, they are larger than top-freezer refrigerators. The spacious design is ideal for suburban car-centric homes where you have to make a lot of bulk purchases. They are also very modular in design with plenty of freedom for rearranging shelves, compartments, and trays so that you can make the best use of available space.
However, bottom freezers cost more than top-freezer refrigerators. Apart from the high upfront cost, you also need to pay more for electricity. That’s why you need to make the most out of your storage space and modularity to stock up with bulk purchases and make fewer trips to the supermarket. Yes, you have to plan out your meals for the whole week, but you save gas money. This roomy refrigerator is also unsuitable for an individual due to its high operational cost and extra space. On the other hand, bottom freezer refrigerators look great with their modern wide design and will blend in flawlessly in your kitchen. They are also very ergonomic since the less used freezer is at the bottom and you get eye-level access to your refrigerator compartment.
Pros:
- More storage and modularity
- Modern look and style
- Great for moderately sized families
- Better ergonomics and easier access to items
Cons:
- Higher upfront and operational cost
- You need to bend to access the freezer
- Food may be lost at the bottom of the freezer
- Buying considerations – Here are a few make-or-break buying considerations that may help you narrow down your decision:
- Energy efficiency – If energy efficiency is at the top of the priority list, you should go for top freezers since they use less energy. The compressor is at the bottom and away from the freezer, which makes it easier to keep heat out with less energy. Top freezers can use as much as one-fifth less energy than bottom freezer models with the same dimensions.
- Storage – For moderately sized or large families that need to cook large batches of meals with different preferences, bottom freezer refrigerators are the ideal choice. On the contrary, couples and individuals would prefer top-freezer models since they tend to have lesser needs and usually live in smaller spaces with limited room in the kitchen.
- Ergonomics – Your ergonomics with the refrigerator would be decided by your lifestyle. Go for the top freezer if you eat a lot of meat and frozen items and opt for the bottom freezer otherwise.
Conclusion
Both the top and bottom freezer models have their advantages and disadvantages, and you should choose one that best aligns with your interests. However, if your old fridge can still be prevented from going to the landfill, you should get it fixed by a professional by searching for “refrigerator repair near me”. For more information please visit – san francisco apartments
Comments are closed.